My All-Time Favorite Banana Loaf Bread Recipe 🍌💛
There’s something magical about the smell of banana bread baking in the oven—it instantly takes me back to quiet Sunday mornings with my grandmother. She had this little handwritten cookbook, stained with time, and nestled in it was her signature banana loaf bread recipe. As a kid, I remember sneaking slices while they were still warm, slathered with a bit of butter… pure bliss!
Now, years later, I’ve adapted her classic version into an easy banana loaf bread recipe that’s perfect for beginners, families, or anyone who has a few overripe bananas sitting on the counter. It’s warm, soft, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. Let’s bake something beautiful together!
🍌 Ingredients for Banana Loaf Bread Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the best banana loaf bread recipe. Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together like magic.
- 3 ripe bananas (the riper, the better!)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Banana Loaf Bread Recipe
1. Preheat your oven and prep the pan
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Tip: If using parchment, let it hang over the sides for easy lifting once the loaf is done.
2. Mash the bananas
In a large bowl, mash your bananas with a fork until smooth. A few small lumps are totally fine—it adds texture!
Pro tip: The more overripe your bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your loaf will be.
3. Mix the wet ingredients
Add melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined.
Important: Don’t overmix the batter! It can make the loaf dense rather than fluffy.
5. Add optional mix-ins
Fold in chopped walnuts or chocolate chips if using. This adds a delicious twist to your homemade banana loaf bread recipe!
6. Bake to perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tip: If the top browns too quickly, lightly tent it with foil halfway through baking.
7. Cool and enjoy
Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Slice once fully cooled (or warm, if you can’t resist like me!).
🏆 Why This is the Best Banana Loaf Bread Recipe
This recipe is a keeper. Not only is it super easy, but it also gives you a moist, flavorful loaf every single time. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack with coffee, or even as a sweet treat after dinner.
I truly believe that once you try this homemade banana loaf bread recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions again!
❓FAQ About Banana Loaf Bread Recipe
1. How do I store banana loaf bread?
Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
2. Can I freeze banana loaf bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm slices in the microwave.
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
4. What if I don’t have baking soda?
Baking powder can work, but you’ll need to use 3 teaspoons instead. Keep in mind it may alter the texture slightly.
5. Why is my banana bread dry or dense?
Common mistakes include overmixing the batter, using too much flour, or overbaking. Be sure to measure accurately and keep a close eye on the baking time.
Thanks for joining me in the kitchen today. I hope this banana loaf bread recipe becomes a staple in your home like it is in mine. 💛 If you try it, let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how it turned out!
